Word Origin & History

grunt O.E. grunnettan, freq. of grunian "to grunt," probably imitative. The noun meaning "infantry" emerged in U.S. military slang during Vietnam War (first recorded in print 1969); used since 1900 of various low-level workers. Grunt work first recorded 1977.

Example Sentences for grunt

The three gave Andy a look and a grunt, but otherwise they paid no attention to him.

There was a brief shifting of eyes toward him, and a grunt from Jeff; that was all.

He did not speak, but he made an inarticulate noise between a grunt and a sniff.

Mr Verloc, after a grunt of disapproving surprise, returned to the sofa.

The grunt of the human hog (Pignoramus intolerabilis) with an audible memory.

Kirkwood would know; and by way of reply had a grunt of the younger waterman.

With a grunt of approval, Calendar swept the weapon up and into his pocket.

Beyond a growl or a grunt, the dog took its punishment silently.

There was a whack as one lump hit the boat, and a grunt as the other struck some man.

She does not want to listen or talk, she only wants to scrunch betel, and grunt.